They say that controversy creates cash, but in the case of BetBright it may prove be the opposite. On Good Friday BetBright sent out a casual promotional e-mail to members, with the brand’s marketing team not thinking too much of it. The email read “[Jesus] would probably frown on you betting on a holy day, but he’s been dead for years”, with this statement followed up by comments relating to how players should not let Jesus spoil their day off. Considering the nature of the email, many deemed it insensitive on religious grounds, with a backlash ensuing.
Anger and disappointment
Shortly after the email landed in inboxes up and down the UK, users took to social media in order to express their anger and disappointment. While some members took the joke at face value, others viewed it to be something a little more sinister. As the day unfolded it was clear that there were more of the latter than the former. Complaints flooded in, with BetBright, with the casino brand run by former Barclays banker Rich Ricci forced to take action.
Apology
When in doubt, a company should rush to apologise, and that is exactly what BetBright opted to do. Brian Farrell (BetBright Marketing Director) moved quickly to send out an apology email. This emailed stated that they were sorry for the release of the email and its nature, while it also stated that it would be dealing with the matter internally.It seems that BetBright is earning somewhat of a reputation for its controversial nature. This is because earlier this month the brand was forced to issue another apology, as at the Ryanair Chase they ran the horse Vautour when it was supposed to be running one day later at the Timico Gold Cup.